Local traditions and culture in Arizona

Saguaro is pronounced “suh-war-o”, although I say “SAHG-WA-RO” which is wrong…but then who cares... this Cacti could probably be the official state cactus of Arizona – I am not sure if it has this title already. It is a great plant and really adds to the image of our state.

But definitely, it is a criminal offense to harm these plants. And if you have to build your property on land with a saguaros, you have to pay for uprooting and relocating them!

They do grow out slowly, growing just an inch or two annually during the first eight years, and then they leap upward ---- but it is only between 50-70 years before they start sprouting arms. And you see a lot of these arms in both Phoenix and Tucson (where they have a saguaro park)--- meaning that we really have very very old saguaros!

I think it’s dangerous that there is NO bicycle helmet law in Arizona for minors or for adults. You'd be shocked to see these motorcyclists on the freeway, and even kids in parks riding their bicycles without helmets! But apparently, eye protection is required though!

However, there may be local statutes (county or city) on helmets and you may still need to call your county sheriff or city police department to find out what statutes apply where you are.

But, no matter what, it is really very dumb not to be wearing helmets specially now when we know how fatal accidents can be when people do not have protective gear!

So, when you’re driving along I-17, don’t be shocked when you see a speeding biker without a helmet! And when you rent your Harley bike (yes, there are places where you can rent a Harley in Arizona! Vroom, vroom...), be sure to still wear your helmet!

You might see a cowboy with a gun in his holster in Arizona and this is perfectly legal in this state, as long as he is not a “Prohibited Possessor”.

Arizona has had a long history of guns and cowboys, and so there is No state permit required to possess a shotgun, rifle or handgun. But it is unlawful for a "prohibited possessor" to possess a firearm - a prohibited possessor includes a person found to constitute a danger to himself or others pursuant to a court order and whose court ordered treatment has not been terminated, and there are other things that may make you “prohibited” (like if you’ve killed someone fore with a gun!)

Another law on guns says: No person shall carry a firearm "concealed on his person." This does not apply to a person in his dwelling, business premises or on real property owned or leased by that person. A handgun carried in a belt holster which is wholly or partially visible or carried in luggage is not considered carrying concealed.

So, in this land of the cowboys, don’t be shocked if you see guns in holsters!

There was no sign coming from the east towards Fort Apache, so we got lost, and had to stop at the Chevron Station (about the only thing in the town of Day Canyon). Got good directions and met this cute White Mountain Apache girl.

If you are in AZ try the "My Nana" brand Tortilla chips (sold at all the valley grocery stores-many times they are on display near the fruits and veggies, or they should be in the snack isle)
These are the best tortilla chips and used in many of the mexican restaurants here. Hand-stretched tortillas chips made from stone ground corn-very good with your favorite salsa. Put a bunch in a bowl and microwave a few seconds they will taste just like at the restaurant. I prefer the White corn, but you can get in yellow corn too.
Made in arizona.

If you plan to travel to any Native American ceremonies and events, please ask a Native person what are some customs.

For Example: If you're going to go to a Kachina dance on Hopi lands, remember, NO PHOTOGRAPHY! Also during certain feast outsiders are welcomed into various homes to eat.

Another Example: Sunrise Dance on Apache lands, don't walk in front of the Crown Dancers, because they will not hesitate to run after you and whip you no matter who you are.

Many native peoples are very friendly, but some are hesitant to talk with outsiders with caucasian tendencies. So you are for warned.

1864-1886 marked a period of Indian wars and "relocation". In 1864, the Navajos were forced to march from their land to New Mexico, in the "long walk", during which countless Navajo died. The Apache continued to fight with U.S. settlers and soldiers for the next 20 years, until Geronimo's surrender in 1886, marking the end of the indian wars.
Today 26% of Arizona is reservation land. The Navajo reservation covers 27,000 square miles, mostly in northeastern Arizona. The Hopi, the oldest and most traditional tribe, live on a 2,410 square mile reservation, most of which was once designated as Navajo land.

Arizona is a great place to go and explore the past and present of Native American culture. Hiking in the Grand Canyon, you'll find ruins of ancient civilizations which were the first known inhabitants of the area. The Havasupai Indians operate a resort area in the western portion of the Canyon as well. Traveling through Northern Arizona, you can visit the indian reservations and see the bits of culture and history that are preserved there.

Native American Indians still have a major influence on the state of Arizona. Reminders of their history can be seen in national monuments, tribal parks, and historic sites that preserve their ancient dwellings, crafts, and customs. Through out the state you will find Native Americans items still being made and sold; along road ways as well as in galleries and gift shops. You will see the S.W. Indian influence in the flat topped, earth tone, adobe style homes and businesses you see within the state. In Sedona you will see that this theme is carried out to the point that even the McDonalds is of this S.W. Indian architectural style.
The photo shows some Indian items I have purchased. The pottery is a seed pot with a lizard design. Below the pot is a small Navajo sand artwork. The beaded hairpiece has a design honoring the sun and the traditional manor in which many tribes face the doors of their homes east to greet the morning sun as it rises. Local American Indians designed the earrings and necklace.